Best Photos Of Uzbekistan

Best photos of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan had been on my bucket list for a long time. I heard the Silk Road and its rich history calling me. I had visions of intricate azure tiles, towering minarets, and ancient madrassas. I could barely put my camera down as I explored Uzbekistan for two weeks. The country has great infrastructure, a lack of tourists, low costs, and so much to see. In other words, I highly recommend that you visit. And you can check out my two-week agenda in Uzbekistan.

Samarkand

Samarkand is considered one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Central Asia, with some dating it back to the 8^th century BC. In the 14^th century, it became the capital of the powerful Timurid Empire. Many of the highly regarded landmarks of the Silk Road were constructed under this empire. In 2001, Samarkand was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Registan

The Registan was the heart and the pubic square of the Timurid dynasty. This open space is framed by three majestic and large madrasahs. One was built in the 15^th century while the other two were constructed in the 17^th century. Make sure you visit more than once; I came twice for sunset and once for sunrise. Despite it being one of the world’s top treasures, I had the Registan to myself for sunrise.

Bibi Khanym Mosque

This mosque was built and named after Timur’s favorite wife, Bibi-Khanym. At that time, it was one of the world’s largest and majestic mosques in the world. The mosque broke ground in 1399.

Gur Emir Mausoleum

Gur Emir was completed in 1404 and is the Mausoleum for Timur and his sons and grandsons. While the exterior is fantastic, and the interior is stunning with incredibly beautiful and detailed tile work. Also, come at night to see the Mausoleum lit up.

A Koran lighted by the rays of the sun.

Shah-i-Zinda

Shah-i-Zinda which translated to the Living King in Persian is a necropolis with a series of beguiling mausoleums. Shah-i-Zinda complex was formed over eight centuries, starting in the 11th. Today, there are 20 structure with amazing, azure tile work. It was another great place to visit.

Shahrisabz

Shahrisabz is an hour or so from Samarkand and makes a nice day trip. This city is well-known as the birthplace of Timur. This was a beautiful shrine at a mosque.

Bukhara

Bukhara is another city on the ancient Silk Road with over 140 monuments. For a visitor, the historic area is very walkable, and this is another UNESCO World Heritage sight.

Kalyan Mosque and Minaret

This area reminds me of the Registan on a lesser scale, but equally as magnificent. The Kalyan Mosque dates to the 15^th century. The adjacent Kalyan Mosque is a prominent landmark in Bukhara and towers over 150 feet.

Mir-I-Arab Madrasa

Mir-I-Arab Madrasa stands opposite the Kalyan Mosque with an open courtyard that stands between them. Unfortunately, you can not explore the interior.

Samanid Mausoleum

A small structure compared to some others in Bukhara. This 10^th century mausoleum is well-known for its early Islamic architecture and style.

Khiva

The further west you travel on the Silk Road, the cities become smaller. And Khiva, the third in the trifecta is the smallest. This compact walled city is extremely well-preserved. Less than 100,000 people live here and Khiva was established over 1500 years ago. Khiva is another UNESCO World Heritage site.

This is the beautiful skyline of Khiva at sunset. Climb up to the tower at Kunya Ark to get ready for the amazing colors.

Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum

This mausoleum is of the 14th-century poet and sage Pakhlavan Makhmud, who was proclaimed a Muslim saint. The tile work and colors were stunning. This is a well worthwhile visit in the walled city.

Tash Khovli

Tash Khovli is a relatively new (early 19^th century) summer palace found in Khiva. I found the design on the ceiling to be stunning.

Nukus

Nukus is located in the far west of Uzbekistan and is the capital of the autonomous region of Karakalpakstan. For those who explore Nukus, the driving reason is the world-renowned Nukus Museum of Art. And other use it for a launching point to explore the dying Aral Sea. But there is another reason to ravel here.

Mizdakhan Necropolis

On the outskirts of Nukus on a rolling hill is the Mizdakhan Necropolis. Tombs, graves, mausoleums, and mosques cover this large expanse. This is a fascinating place to explore, but the true magic arrives at sunset.

If you are in the region consider driving the Pamir Highway.

Best photos of Uzbekistan.